Jul 26, 2024 | event
On Tuesday, 23 July 2024, Universitas Indonesia hosted a momentous occasion, the “2024 Universitas Indonesia Degree Awarding Ceremony for International Students,” which brought together 53 graduates from various disciplines across the university. This special event, a highlight of the academic calendar, not only celebrated the accomplishments of these international graduates but also showcased Universitas Indonesia’s commitment to global education and cultural diversity.
The Department of International Relations is proud to be the only department to represent FISIP UI in the ceremony. The department was proudly represented by four international graduates from the master’s degree program. They are from Mexico, Madagaskar, Iran, and Timor Leste. They were congratulated for their degree by the secretary of the university, dr. Agustin Kusumayati, M.Sc., Ph.D. and the Dean of FISIP UI, Prof. Semiarto Aji Purwanto.
In the ceremony, the students were accompanied by the Head of Graduate Program, Broto Wardoyo Ph.D. Currently, the Graduate Program hosts another seven international students from diverse countries in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. This number is expected to increase along with the Department of International Relations internationalisation goal. The department has been working on this goal through the ongoing international accreditation and the partnership on student mobility with international universities. In the future, the Department of International Relations will continue to broaden its international network by creating programs to establish more engagement with international institutions.
Beyond its celebratory nature, the ceremony served as a platform for Universitas Indonesia to strengthen its international partnerships and showcase its academic progress toward an internationally celebrated university. Distinguished guests including deans, vice deans, lecturers, as well as representatives from partner universities, embassies, and other academic institutions across Indonesia, attended, highlighting the university’s role in fostering global connections and collaborations.
For the Department of International Relations, the ceremony marked a significant milestone in their ongoing efforts to host and support international students, contributing to a vibrant and inclusive campus environment. It highlighted the department’s dedication to delivering world-class education and nurturing future global leaders.
In essence, the 2024 Universitas Indonesia Degree Awarding Ceremony for International Students not only celebrated academic excellence but also reinforced Universitas Indonesia’s position as a leading institution dedicated to fostering international understanding and academic excellence.
Jul 3, 2024 | event
The Department of International Relations at the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Universitas Indonesia (FISIP UI), completed a major international visit from June 17-23, 2024. Led by Dr. Asra Virgianita, Dr. Ardhitya Eduard Yeremia Lalisang, and Dr. Broto Wardoyo, the delegation visited two universities in Japan: Ritsumeikan Asia-Pacific University in Fukuoka, and Ritsumeikan University in Osaka, as well as two universities in China: the Chinese University of Hong Kong in Shenzhen and Xiamen University in Xiamen.
The visit aimed to strengthen academic collaborations and foster relationships with prominent universities in Japan and China. Discussions at each institution focused on potential research partnerships, academic exchange programs, and participation in international conferences. The delegation actively engaged with faculty members and administrators to explore avenues for mutual learning and cooperation in the field of international relations.
A significant milestone during the visit was the signing of collaborative agreements with Ritsumeikan Asia-Pacific University, Japan and Xiamen University, China. These documents solidify commitments to mutual academic support and exchange, laying the groundwork for future collaborations in research, education, and professional development.
A conversation regarding the future collaborative project between the Department of International Relations FISIP and Asia-Japan Research Institute, Ritsumeikan University Japan was also an important first step in forming an international research environment. The similar plan was also brought in the meeting between the department and School of Social Science and Humanities, the Chinese University of Hong Kong to build a subject specific to social sciences research collaboration.
The delegation also participated in the "Indonesia and the World Interdisciplinary, Interregional, and Intersectoral Conference" at Xiamen University, where they presented research papers and engaged in scholarly discourse on related global issues. This conference provided a platform to network with scholars from various disciplines, promoting cultural understanding and academic synergy.
The international visit highlighted the Department of International Relations FISIP UI’s commitment to expanding its global presence and advancing academic excellence through international partnerships. The department looks forward to building upon these collaborations to enrich academic opportunities and deepen understanding in international relations.
Jun 13, 2024 | event
Depok, 30 May 2024 – The Department of International Relations, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Universitas Indonesia, held a seminar on "Searching for the Midpoint of Democracy: Between National Security and Civil Liberties" on 30 May 2024. This event took place from 13.30 to 16.00 WIB at the Auditorium Ilmu Komunikasi and presented several speakers to discuss how to find a balance between the needs of the authorities to maintain national security and ensure that the rights to free-speeches are still fulfilled regarding the issue of the use of spyware in Indonesia.
Broto Wardoyo, Ph.D., lecturer in the Department of International Relations, as moderator, opened the discussion by providing a brief overview of how the issue of spyware in the context of national security and civil liberties is becoming increasingly relevant in society. From a regulatory perspective, Dr. Sulistyo, Deputy for Cyber and Crypto Security for Government and Human Development at BSSN RI, explained the importance of data protection as a national issue.
Brig. Pol. I Made Astawa, Deputy Head of Densus 88 AT Polri, explained that wiretapping carried out by Densus 88 is an important instrument in countering terrorism and emphasized that the main principle in implementing wiretapping is respecting the civil rights while maintaining national security. From a journalist's perspective, Herik Kurniawan, Editor-in-Chief of GTV and Chair of the Indonesian Television Journalists Association (IJTI), explained the role of the media as the fourth pillar of democracy with the challenge of facing regulations that limit the movement of journalists. Mabda Haerunnisa Fajrilla Sidiq, researcher at The Habibie Center, discussed the visibility of the use of cyber as a surveillance tool from a cyber security perspective.
Dr. A. J. Simon Runturambi, Chair of the SKSG UI National Resilience Study Program, underlined the importance of intelligence reform to accommodate civil liberties without disrupting institutions' authority to maintain national security. Ali Abdullah Wibisono, Ph.D., International Security lecturer at the HI Department of FISIP UI, closed the session by discussing in depth the cyber security landscape in Indonesia, which is influenced by the condition of unfinished nation-building and the importance of answering the fundamental question: "Security for whom?" and “Security for what?” –
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Jun 5, 2024 | event
Depok, June 5, 2024 – The Department of International Relations at Universitas Indonesia recently hosted a mini workshop aimed at guiding students through the process of pursuing graduate studies, particularly PhD programs, in the United States. The workshop was presented by Dr. Christian C. Lentz, a distinguished academic with extensive experience in American higher education both as a former graduate student and a current member of an admissions team.
Dr. Lentz’s workshop was designed to provide aspiring PhD candidates with valuable insights and practical advice, drawing from his firsthand experiences. The session began by addressing the fundamental question: Why pursue a PhD in the US? Participants explored the numerous advantages, such as high-quality education, enhanced career opportunities, the chance for in-depth study, and the ability to conduct original research. The discussion also covered potential challenges, including the long duration of study (5-7 years), the demands of English-language instruction, and the highly competitive nature of these programs.
A significant portion of the workshop focused on the initial steps necessary to embark on this journey. Dr. Lentz emphasized the importance of identifying academic interests and long-term goals, selecting the appropriate research methodology (quantitative, qualitative, or mixed-methods), and choosing the right discipline and theoretical framework. He highlighted the critical role of mentorship and provided detailed information on available resources, such as scholarships, Teaching Assistantships (TAships), and grants that support international students.
Choosing the right PhD program is a crucial step, and Dr. Lentz guided participants through the decision-making process. Students learned how to evaluate universities and departments based on their prestige, available resources, and specific program offerings. The session covered strategies for identifying potential professors who could serve on their advisory committee, as well as assessing the level of peer support and competition within each program. Dr. Lentz stressed the importance of making a strong initial contact with potential supervisors, advising students to express their interest and credentials succinctly in their first email, followed by inquiries about the professors’ availability for PhD supervision.
The workshop concluded with comprehensive guidance on the application process. Participants received tips on crafting a compelling Statement of Purpose (SOP), approaching letter writers for recommendations, and preparing a strong CV with writing samples. A detailed application timeline was provided, outlining key steps from initial outreach in August to beginning the visa process in April. The interactive sessions included practical exercises to help students identify suitable programs, draft introductory emails, and outline their SOPs.
Additionally, securing your own funding for a PhD, such as through the LPDP scholarship from the Indonesian government, can significantly enhance your chances of being accepted into US universities, as it reduces their financial burden. However, most PhD programs in the US offer financial assistance through departmental funding, although the specifics can vary from one state to another. Therefore, it is crucial to focus on understanding the application process and building connections with potential advisors to increase your chances of success in pursuing graduate studies in the US.
Apr 30, 2024 | event
Autonomy and Rebellion at the China-Myanmar Border: Political Aspirations of the Coup and Conflicts in Myanmar and Their Implications for ASEAN
Depok, April 30, 2024 , The Department of International Relations organized a Book Discussion as part of the IR-UI Monthly Discussion series for April, addressing the issue of autonomy and rebellion at the China-Myanmar border due to the Rohingya conflict. The IR-UI monthly discussion took place offline at the Miriam Budiardjo Library (MBRC) at the FISIP UI Campus. Dozens of participants from various study programs attended the event, focusing on the latest book that explores the phenomenon of rebel autonomy in Myanmar post-coup by Singaporean researcher Andrew Ong. In the book titled “Stalemate: Autonomy and Rebellion at the China-Myanmar Border,” the author, a Harvard graduate researcher, deeply examines the case of the United Wa State Army (USWA), which has 30,000 members at the Myanmar-China border. This ethnographic study reveals how diverse forms of autonomy in Myanmar’s border areas have reshaped the political order post-coup, raising questions about the country’s integrity.
The book discussion was moderated by Nida Rubini, a young researcher in the Department of International Relations, who guided the book discussion by first listening to Andrew Ong’s presentation on his work. This was followed by responses and discussions attended by two experts, namely Ali A. Wibisono, Ph.D. – Lecturer in International Relations at UI and researcher at the Habibie Research Center UI, and Patrick Kurniawan, Ph.D. In this book discussion, participants had the opportunity to hear summaries of important cases and stories presented in the book. One of the main points raised was how rebel autonomy in the mountains is not only about defense against the lowland state but also a relational relationship maintained through the management of politics and the flow of capital and people to the mountainous areas. This discussion provided deep insights into the political dynamics in Myanmar and their implications for the country’s political future, as well as potential implications for security and stability in the Southeast Asia/ASEAN region.
This book is not only an in-depth analysis of the political realities in Myanmar but also offers important reflections on various visions of autonomy by different armed groups in the country. Using the concrete case of the United Wa State Army, this book becomes an important guide to understanding the political complexities in Myanmar’s border areas and makes a valuable contribution to the study of international relations and comparative politics. The book discussion event concluded with a group photo with all participants, which is expected to serve as a medium for further collaboration in the future between the FISIP UI academic community and external researchers related to human rights issues, conflicts, and Myanmar. For more information about this book and the IR-UI monthly discussion, please contact the event committee through the press contact listed below.
Apr 30, 2024 | event
Depok – 30 April 2024. Serangan ratusan drone rudal Iran ke Israel pada 13 April 2024 menjadi titik baru konflik antara dua negara berpengaruh di kawasan Timur Tengah. Serangan tersebut menjadi serangan langsung pertama yang dilakukan Iran dari wilayah kedaulatannya dalam skala cukup besar terhadap Israel. Rivalitas Iran dan Israel bukanlah cerita baru di kawasan Timur Tengah. “Perang di antara perang” antara Israel dan Iran telah berlangsung sejak awal 1980an dalam bentuk perang proksi yang melibatkan kelompok bersenjata; atau operasi serangan siber, maritim, dan udara yang tidak diakui. Konflik ini memiliki dampak yang luas di wilayah Timur Tengah dan melibatkan berbagai aspek. Bentuk serangan terbuka yang bentuknya tidak mengikuti pakem konflik normal ini berpotensi menjadi awal bentuk baru perseteruan di antara kedua negara, yang tidak hanya berdampak secara signifikan di Timur Tengah, namun juga ke negara-negara lain, termasuk Indonesia.
Departemen Hubungan Internasional, Fakultas Ilmu Sosial dan Ilmu Politik dan Program Studi Arab, Fakultas Ilmu Budaya, Universitas Indonesia mengadakan diskusi dengan judul Eskalasi Konflik Iran-Israel: Masihkah Ada Asa Perdamaian di Timur Tengah? pada 30 April 2024 di Auditorium Mochtar Riyadi. Diskusi ini bertujuan untuk mendiskusikan akar konflik, potensi dinamika konflik Iran-Israel pasca serangan drone Iran ke Israel, implikasinya bagi keamanan dan perekonomian regional dan internasional, serta peran Indonesia dan dunia untuk mencari potensi ruang perdamaian di kawasan. Diskusi menghadirkan empat pembicara, yakni Broto Wardoyo (Dosen Hubungan Internasional, FISIP – UI), Bastian Zulyeno (Dosen Program Studi Arab, FIB – UI), Ade Solihat (Dosen Program Studi Arab, FIB – UI), dan Aderia (Editor in Chief SEA Today). Diskusi yang dihadiri 120 mahasiswa Hubungan Internasional, FISIP UI, dan Studi Arab, FIB, UI ini dibuka dengan pernyataan Ketua Departemen HI, Asra Virgianita, yang berharap meningkatnya diskusidiskusi lintas keilmuan di antara dua bidang ilmu ini. “Perspektif politik internasional yang kental di HI akan saling melengkapi dengan perspektif manusia dan budaya dari studi Arab,” jelas Asra.
Broto Wardoyo menyebut bahwa konflik antara Iran dan Israel ini merupakan bagian dari persaingan tiga kekuatan dominan di Timur Tengah, yaitu Israel, Iran, dan Arab Saudi. Persaingan tersebut turut dicampuri oleh keterlibatan negara-negara besar dengan motivasi yang berbeda-beda. “Amerika Serikat sebagai security guarantor, Rusia sebagai partner terbatas, dan Cina sebagai economic profit seeker; alasan utamanya adalah politik hidrokarbon dan rute perdagangan global,” jelas Broto. Berbicara mengenai perdamaian seutuhnya di kawasan, menurut Broto, paling realistis adalah berharap adanya negative peace di kawasan. “Untuk setidaknya tercapai kondisi stabil dengan perimbangan kekuatan di kawasan serta berkurangnya konflik militer dan luasan wilayah konflik,” tutup Broto.
Mengawali paparannya dengan menunjukkan video dokumentasi demonstrasi menentang serangan Israel ke Gaza di Columbia University, Amerika Serikat yang diikuti oleh mahasiswa asal Indonesia, Bastian Zuleyno menggunakan analogi film 300 (Three Hundred_baca) di mana pada saat itu, Hollywood menggambarkan serangan tiga ratus tentara Romawi ke Persia (Iran saat ini). Pada serangan 13 April lalu, tiga ratus serangan drone dilancarkan oleh Iran kepada Israel. Zuleyno menggarisbawahi bahwa konflik ini adalah konflik yang sangat panjang. “Apa yang terjadi hari ini dimulai sejak 1979. Saat itu Iran tidak mengakui Israel dan ingin menghapus Israel dari peta dunia. Slogan anti-Israel sampai saat ini terus ada dan memperburuk stabilitas kawasan,” jelas Zuleyno. Dari sudut pandang Iran, keterlibatannya dalam konflik didorong karena kebencian yang diamplifikasi oleh rezim. “Faktor siapa yang memerintah Iran penting menentukan tindakan apa yang dilakukan Iran dalam konteks konflik di Timur Tengah,” jelas Zuleyno.
Ade Solihat menyampaikan sudut pandang konflik ini dari sisi manusia, dengan melihat bagaimana konflik panjang ini berdampak pada tidak hanya warga Palestina tapi juga warga sipil Israel. Dengan kondisi konflik yang sangat panjang, Ade Solihat menyatakan
bahwa, “konflik ini sudah dianggap normal. Perang adalah normal bagi masyarakat di sana.” Ade merujuk pada beberapa film dokumenter pendek mengenai kehidupan di Gaza dan tepi Barat, yang salah satunya menggambarkan bagaimana Orang Palestina dipaksa kehilangan tempat yang paling dia sukai akibat konflik. “Dehumanisasi terjadi, bahkan ketika perang tidak ada. Tidak ada situasi normal di Jalur Gaza maupun Tepi Barat,” simpul Ade. Bahkan bagi warga Israel pun tidak ada kehidupan normal karena ketakutan akan permusuhan dan perasaan terancam menghantui setiap mereka ke luar rumah. Oleh karena itu, Ade mengajak semua pihak untuk melihat konflik dari perspektif damai untuk semua sebagai manusia.
Aderia melihat konflik Iran-Israel dari perspektif pemberitaan media. Media selalu dianggap memiliki afiliasi negara tertentu yang menjadikan netralitasnya menjadi relatif. Hal ini juga menjadi salah satu isu ketika suatu media memberitakan konflik atau perang antarnegara. “Adalah hal yang biasa bagi media untuk dianggap memihak pada salah satu negara yang terlibat konflik dan kemudian dianggap berseberangan dengan negara yang menjadi lawannya,” jelas Aderia. Persepsi berpihak terkadang hanya karena media tersebut mendapatkan akses untuk mewawancarai salah satu pihak dalam konflik. “Hal ini yang menjadikan liputan konflik harus memperhatikan pemilihan kata, safety wartawan, dan bagaimana informasi mengenai konflik bisa diakses,” tandas Aderia.—
